R.I.P. Robin Leach, host of Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous

"Champagne wishes and caviar dreams!"

Before Keeping up with the Kardashians, before Real Housewives, before Cribs, there was Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, the show that helped popularize reality television and promote property envy. The syndicated television series aired from 1984–1995, giving viewers a peek into the lives of the fabulously wealthy.

But it wouldn't have been nearly as classy without the British accent. As the host, Robin Leach gave an air of royalty to Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.

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Born in London, Leach got an early start in journalism as the editor of his school paper at the age of 14. His professional career began in print, too, writing for Daily Mail and The Star. After heading to America, Leach joined Regis Philbin as an entertainment reporter at KABC-TV on AM Los Angeles.

In 1984, he landed the job as Lifestyles host, at the peak of the decadent '80s. The series was the creation of Al Masini, the visionary producer behind Solid Gold, Entertainment Tonight and Star Search. So much of modern television — from E! to American Idol — can trace its roots back to his programs.

Leach took viewers on tours of mansions and yacht, detailing the gold bathroom fixtures and giving the five-figure price tags on chandeliers. At the end of each episode, he signed off by wishing the audience, "Champagne wishes and caviar dreams!"

On Thursday, Leach passed away at the age of 76, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The TV personality had been hospitalized since November 21 after suffering a stroke in Cabo San Lucas. He would have been 77 next Wednesday.

Leach's TV credits included cameos on scripted series such as Sledge Hammer! and Thirtysomething. In 1988, he also made a memorable appearance in Wrestlemania IV, introducing the tournament for the WWF World Heavyweight Championship. Naturally, Ted "The Million Dollar Man" DiBiase was involved.

Later in life, Leach settled down in Las Vegas, where he wrote for Las Vegas Sun.